Escaping Escapism
We live in a world that’s constantly looking for an escape.
After a long day, it’s so easy to grab our phones, open an app, and scroll until our brains shut off. We tell ourselves, “I just need to unplug for a bit,” but somehow, it never really leaves us feeling rested.
That’s what this week’s message, Escaping Escapism, is all about.
Psalm 23 begins like this:
“The Lord is my shepherd; I have what I need. He lets me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside quiet waters; He renews my life.”
It’s one of the most familiar passages in the Bible, often read at funerals, but it’s not just a psalm of comfort — it’s prophetic. David was writing about the Good Shepherd, the One who would come to lead us to true rest and peace. Jesus said in John 10:11, “I am the good shepherd.”
Here’s the truth: Jesus offers something so much better than a momentary dopamine hit or a quick escape from reality. He offers rest.
Learning to Rest
Rest isn’t just about naps or taking a day off. In Scripture, rest is about trust. When we rest, we’re saying, “God, I trust You to work even when I’m not.”
That’s what Sabbath is all about. It’s not just a day on the calendar—it’s a mindset. It’s the rhythm of learning to pause, breathe, and remember that we’re not in control.
Because if we’re honest, most of us don’t need another vacation. We need to stop believing the lie that we can do it all. We’re tired because we’re trying to be everything to everyone. We’re running from one thing to the next, and then we wonder why we’re burned out.
When we choose God-honoring rest, we don’t have to escape. We find peace.
Seeing Where You’re Seated
Psalm 23 also says, “You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies.”
That means even in the middle of chaos, tension, or stress, God’s inviting you to sit down — right there — and rest in His presence.
You don’t have to scroll away the discomfort. You don’t have to check out of reality. You can find peace even in the middle of it.
Because the same Jesus who calmed the storm in Mark 4 is still calming storms today. And even if He doesn’t stop the storm immediately, He’s still in the boat with you.
So maybe the question isn’t how do I get away? Maybe it’s how do I rest right where I am?
Let the Good Shepherd lead you beside quiet waters. Let Him restore your soul. You don’t need an escape — you need His presence.
